Experiences at Como Shambhala

COMO Shambhala Estate in Bali is a luxury resort and wellness retreat located just a few miles from the artists’ town of Ubud. The Estate occupies a lush location next to the River Ayung, where it boasts its own sacred spring revered by locals for its healing properties, while activities make exceptional use of the great outdoors. Bali itself is part of the Indonesian archipelago and very accessible. It is known for its lush topography, golden beaches and highly developed performing and visual arts—to which COMO can provide knowledgeable access through its highly trained English-speaking guides.

WATER SPRING BLESSING

In the emerald green gardens of COMO Shambhala Estate, you will find an ancient spring of rejuvenating holy water just footsteps from the Ayung River. Dressed in traditional Balinese attire, you will be guided through chanting and offerings by a local priest. You will wash beside a statue of the god Ganesha, allowing the minerals to soak into your skin. While chanting, the priest will splash each participant three times with holy water. With this, you will be considered new – clean in mind and soul.

Duration: One hour

Inclusions: Estate guide, local priest and offerings 

Preparations are needed for this experience, please confirm your request at least 24 hours in advance. T&C apply

COOKING CLASSES

Try your hand at cooking a three-course meal at COMO Shambhala Estate, with instruction from our talented chefs in the Estate's main kitchen. You can choose the menu you want to prepare, whether it's an authentic Indonesian dish like those we serve at Kudus House, or our healthful and energising COMO Shambhala Cuisine served at glow. You'll be taught everything from preparing the raw ingredients to presenting the food in COMO's elegant style. Then after you've finished cooking, you can sit down and dine on your creations in a glow, our contemporary, open-sided restaurant at the heart of COMO Shambhala Estate.

Duration: One and a half hours

Maximum participation: Four people - no minimum number 

Time: Everyday, from 10.30am to 12.00pm or 2.30pm to 4.00pm

Inclusions: Practical demonstration, apron, lunch 

Preparations are needed for this experience, please confirm your request at least 24 hours in advance. T&C apply

WATER PURIFICATION TOUR

Take part in an authentic Balinese spiritual experience at the water temple of Tirta Empul. The 10th-century temple plays a key role in Balinese mythology and religious history. After making offerings under the ancient banyan tree that shades the outer temple you will enter the inner courtyard, where your guide will lead you through a series of cleansing processes in several of the 30 water sources. Each water source has its own meaning and purpose, ranging from protection against nightmares to clearing one’s chakras. Be prepared to spend half an hour or more in the holy waters. After visiting the fountains you take part in a final prayer, led by a priest, in the innermost temple. From here you can see the spring water welling up from the ground, stirring the dark volcanic soils of the island.

Duration: Four to five hours

Time: 7am

Inclusions: Estate guide, water, transport, entrance fees, offerings and sarong

What to wear/bring: A change of clothes

T&C apply.

UBUD ESSENTIAL TOUR

This tour is designed around three key elements of Balinese culture: spirituality, art, and trade, and will take you through galleries, temples and the local shops of Ubud. Speak to your guide about customising your tour to incorporate the elements of local culture you want to experience the most. The tour leaves early in the morning to avoid the midday heat.  

Duration: Two to three hours

Time: Early in the morning

Inclusions: Estate guide, transport breakfast and coffee

What to wear/bring: Light clothing

T&C apply.

VILLAGE AND RICEFIELD CYCLING

Our guides have devised a range of cycling routes starting from the Estate that showcase the local rural lifestyle. The cycle ride takes you through lush rice fields and past the plethora of temples and shrines that dot the countryside. This trip is accessible to bikers of all ability levels and is usually about seven kilometres long.

Duration: One hour

Inclusions: Estate guide and water

What to wear/bring: Running or walking shoes and shorts

T&C apply.